Well, one technology that really has leaped forward from its original purpose is the Global Positioning System (GPS). It was developed by the U.S space programme for military use and through transmitters and receivers can position any item in the world. Today the most common use for this technology is to be placed on a driver’s dashboard and to direct them through the road system; otherwise known as satellite navigation and its myriad uses include even Bluetooth GPS receiver systems. However, due to the advances in the GPS technology, it has opened it up for innovative new ways and gadgets. For example, you can now use GPS to find out where your cat is or what position a golf ball is on the course.

It is also being tested in the health service as sat nav researchers have integrated the technology with a kit for vulnerable patients living in rural locations. It monitors heartbeat, temperature and breathing rates as well as the patient’s whereabouts and then sends the information back to a doctor wirelessly. The Daily Mail examined other ways that it could help Alzheimer patients by using sensors and projectors in a kitchen to help them identify items that they need. Furthermore, it can be used to track people in an emergency and provide vital location specifics.

Another way that scientists have been using GPS navigation systems to help vulnerable groups is by developing a device for elderly shoppers. When supermarkets change their layouts, it can be confusing for the elderly and by using an item locator it can be a comfort for those whom might lack confidence in the supermarket. Although it may start off as a device for the vulnerable, one day it could be part of everyday shopping experience with touch pads on the end of each aisle. (Source: The Telegraph)

Our favourite new way of using GPS software is the tracking of household pets. As receivers and mobile phone modems have become so small, it’s possible for owners to fit them into their pet’s collars. Imagine if your cat has been getting fatter despite the diet you have put them on, you could now track down the neighbour who has been feeding it! (www.gps-practice-and-fun.com/gps-pet-tracking.html).

Golf lovers can now get accurate distance measurements on the golf course without the need to consult yardage charts or scan for marker posts. With GPS devices, players can now load up details for most golf courses in the world. It will of course be ethically questionable for some players despite it not actually being able improve technique, it will give an advantage in preparation for the next swing.

So what came first? Was GPS needed for a game of golf, to track a pet or help the elderly around a supermarket? Who knows and it doesn’t really matter. What we do know, is that we will keep searching for ways to improve our daily lives and GPS has an exciting part to play in this.